Counseling for Trauma

Many individuals will encounter trauma in their lives, whether through a car accident, abuse, sudden loss of a loved one, a violent crime, exposure to war violence, or a natural disaster. While many can recover with the support of loved ones, some may grapple with lasting effects, experiencing deep emotional pain, fear, confusion, or posttraumatic stress long after the event.

In such cases, the guidance and assistance of a therapist become integral to the healing process.

Trauma Symptoms, as outlined in the DSM-5, encompass four types:

Avoidance Symptoms:

• Steering clear of specific locations, sights, situations, or sounds that trigger reminders of the traumatic event
• Experiencing anxiety, depression, numbness, or guilt

Re-experiencing Symptoms:

• Intrusive thoughts, nightmares, or flashbacks

Hyperarousal Symptoms:

• Anger, irritability, and hypervigilance
• Engaging in aggressive or reckless behavior, including self-harm
• Disturbed sleep patterns

Negative Mood and Cognition Symptoms:

• Loss of interest in once-enjoyable activities
• Difficulty recalling details of the distressing event
• Behavioral changes or habit alterations since the trauma

Research consistently supports psychotherapy as the most effective treatment for trauma. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) are frequently utilized in trauma therapy.

If you or someone you know exhibits the trauma symptoms described above, I am confident in my ability to help and encourage you to reach out for a free consultation.